The Role of a Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor
As we approach Election Day on Tuesday, November 3rd it is critical that community members know about the important roles of an SWCD Supervisor.
The video below provides a clear, informative overview of what it means to serve as an SWCD Supervisor.
What are Soil & Water Conservation Districts (SWCD)?
SWCDs are the conservation experts in your community. As local government units, they provide technical assistance as well as funding and educational resources to meet the conservation needs of private landowners in their area. They work in both rural and urban settings to develop and implement voluntary programs that conserve and protect natural resources on private lands. SWCDs implement Minnesota's conservation programs via a statewide delivery system. Each district is governed by a board of elected Supervisors.
What are SWCD Supervisors?
SWCD Supervisors serve as locally elected leaders who help guide the mission, priorities and stewardship of their county's SWCD.
Because Supervisors are locally elected, they bring citizen voice and local knowledge directly into the natural resource decision making. They advocate for local conservation, influence policy and approve conservation projects. They are actively involved in their community and may participate in district, state and regional events. Supervisors serve 4-year terms and are compensated for their time, expenses and travel.
To qualify as a candidate, you must be:
at least 21 years old,
an eligible voter,
a resident of your district,
and (with limited exceptions), only be running for this office.
To apply, you must first file an affidavit of candidacy with your county in the Spring of an SWCD election year. Elections occur in November. After elections, Supervisors take an Oath of Office and begin their 4-year term in January.
Step Up!
Minnesota depends on local leaders who care deeply about protecting what makes our state extraordinary. As an SWCD Supervisor, you can be a trusted voice for your community. Step up and shape the future of conservation. Create a legacy that lasts for generations.
